Built To Last - Conversations on Wealth, Work & Life
Built to Last represents durability, stewardship, and long-term thinking. It reflects a commitment to creating businesses, wealth, relationships, and systems designed to endure beyond trends, cycles, and individual personalities.
Episodes
27 episodes
The Fed Raised Rates. Now What?
Wade Lopez and Gary Aiken discuss the implications of the Federal Reserve's rate hikes, what investors should watch for, and how to adapt portfolios in a rising interest rate environment.
Are You Taking More Risk Than You Think: Where Risk Hides When the Market Isn't Telling Yo
In this episode, Gary Aiken discusses the nuances of portfolio diversification, risk management, and the importance of understanding hidden risks that can impact long-term financial health. Wade Lopez guides the conversation to help listeners i...
Warsh's First Test: What to Watch Before the Fed's Verdict
In this episode, Wade Lopez and Gary Aiken analyze the significance of the upcoming Federal Reserve interest rate decision, exploring market expectations, economic indicators, and strategic responses for investors and business owners.
Sizing Up AI Risk: What Concord's Own Numbers Say
Gary Aiken and Wade Lopez explore the current state of AI, its market exposure, risks, and long-term opportunities, providing insights for investors navigating this rapidly evolving landscape.
Inflation Still Here and Still Moving Your Money
In this episode, Gary Aiken and Wade Lopez explore the implications of prolonged inflation on personal financial plans and business strategies. They discuss current inflation trends, how different sectors are affected, and practical advice for ...
When Winning Becomes the Risk: What Investors Should Do After a Strong Market
In this episode, Wade Lopez and Gary Aiken discuss how strong market performance can increase portfolio risk, the importance of disciplined rebalancing, and the impact of concentration and AI on investments. They explore practical strategies fo...
Retirement Isn't a Number, It's a Paycheck
This episode explores the critical shift in retirement planning from asset accumulation to generating dependable income. Wade Lopez and Cody Anderson discuss how to create a flexible, tax-efficient retirement income plan that adapts to life's u...
A Good Portfolio Is Not the Same as a Good Financial Plan
This episode explores the critical differences between a strong investment portfolio and a comprehensive financial plan. Wade Lopez and Gary Aiken discuss how to align investments with broader financial goals, including taxes, estate planning, ...
Buy, Rent, Repeat: The Short-Term Rental Opportunity in the Smoky Mountains
With mortgage rates high and traditional real estate stalling, host Wade Lopez talks with developer Reece Milton about why the Smoky Mountains have become one of the top short-term rental markets in the country. They break down the purchase-to-...
Bitcoin, Gold, Real Estate: What in the World Is Going On?
In this episode, Wade Lopez and Gary Aiken explore the complex dynamics of gold, Bitcoin, and real estate in today's macroeconomic environment. They discuss recent market movements, underlying demand, and strategic roles for these assets in a w...
Gary’s Call: What the Rest of 2026 Actually Looks Like
In this episode, Wade Lopez and Gary Aiken analyze the first half of 2026, discussing market performance, geopolitical influences, and sector opportunities. They provide insights on navigating volatility, sector rotations, and strategic investi...
Big Blue’s Reckoning: What IBM’s Worst Day in 115 Years Actually Means
In this episode, we analyze IBM's historic stock drop and explore what it reveals about market reactions, customer priorities, and the importance of execution in business strategy. Join us for insights on managing risk, recognizing trends, and ...
Trump Accounts: What They Mean for Your Family and Your Business
In this episode, Wade Lopez and Daniel Thornton discuss the new Trump accounts, a government-backed savings tool for children, and explore how families and business owners can leverage this opportunity for wealth building and education....
The New Fed: What Kevin Warsh Means for Your Money
In this episode, Wade Lopez and Gary Aiken analyze the implications of Kevin Warsh's appointment as Fed Chair, exploring how his background and policy approach could influence markets, interest rates, and financial planning amidst current econo...
Halftime Report 2026: Staying the Course
In this episode of Built to Last, Wade Lopez and Gary Aiken discuss the mid-year market review, covering GDP, inflation, Federal Reserve policy, market resilience, bonds, energy, valuations, and key risks for the second half of 2026. They empha...
The New IPO Era: SpaceX, Anthropic, and OpenAI
In this episode, we explore the monumental IPO of SpaceX, the upcoming wave of AI company listings like Anthropic and OpenAI, and what these developments mean for investors and the market. We discuss valuation strategies, market dynamics, and h...
The Death of Easy Money
This episode explores the end of the era of easy money, its causes, and what it means for investors and business owners. Wade Lopez and Gary Aiken discuss structural changes in interest rates, market dependence on cheap capital, and strategies ...
AI and Your Money: Separating Hype from Opportunity
This episode explores the current state and future potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in markets and industries. Experts discuss whether AI is a bubble or a long-term shift, its economic impact, and how investors can navigate the hype wi...
Who Do You Want in Your Corner?
In this episode, Becky Blevins a dedicated CFP®, CPWA®, and MSFS, shares her insights on building a successful financial practice, the importance of responsiveness, and the emotional side of financial planning. Discover how her commitment to co...
Inflation: Still a Threat or Yesterday's Problem?
In this episode, Gary Aiken, CIO of Concord Asset Management, discusses the current state of inflation, its impact on investments, and what investors should consider for the future. We explore monetary policy, structural forces influencing infl...
International Stocks — Opportunity, Trap, or Necessary Diversification?
In this insightful interview, financial expert Gary discusses the strategic shift towards international investing, the importance of having a clear investment thesis, and how geopolitical events influence market opportunities. Learn how to adap...
Winning in the New Economic Era
In this insightful interview, financial expert Gary discusses the recent market volatility, the impact of geopolitical conflicts, and the evolving landscape of technology investments. He offers practical advice for investors navigating the curr...
Building a Durable Business: Strategies for Long-Term Success
This episode features Todd Williams, president of Concord Business and Tax Advisors, discussing how business owners can treat their businesses as assets, make strategic decisions, and plan for long-term success. Topics include business valuatio...
Mastering Tax Strategies for 2026 and Beyond - Mac McSwain
In this episode, CPA Mac McSwain shares insights on tax planning, business growth, and the importance of holistic financial strategies. He discusses recent tax law changes, the value of team collaboration, and practical tips for small business ...